Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s transfer to Liverpool is a sign of Arsenal’s stagnation under Arsene Wenger

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s £40million move from Arsenal to Liverpool is hugely symbolic.

Four years ago, Luis Suarez was desperate to make the reverse journey. The Uruguayan believed that there was more potential to win trophies at the Emirates. These days, Jurgen Klopp has more pulling power than Arsene Wenger.

Even more disturbing for Arsenal fans is what Kieran Gibbs said when he signed for West Bromwich Albion yesterday. The 27-year-old full-back talked about how Tony Pulis could help him develop as a player. Gibbs has only showed glimpses of his potential in 13 years in north London. He did not improve under Wenger.

Oxlade-Chamberlain’s reasons for leaving are rooted in similar frustration. Too many players have seen their careers stagnate under Wenger in recent times.

At 24, Oxlade-Chamberlain does not want the best days of his career to ebb away. In six years at the Emirates, the midfielder made only 115 starts - he came off the bench 83 times. He has been hampered by injury, but there were periods when he slipped down the pecking order when fit. Klopp will give him the chance to prove he can grow into a dominant figure in the Premier League. That is important in a World Cup season, when Oxlade-Chamberlain needs to enhance his England credentials.

Will it work? Oxlade-Chamberlain wants to play in central midfield, and there is opportunity on Merseyside. Liverpool have a thrilling attack but a soft centre.

The problem for the new signing is that the role that really needs filling at Anfield would suit a player with more defensive instincts. Competition for the front four positions is likely to be keen. The last thing the new boy needs is to be part of a rotating group of attackers.

Oxlade-Chamberlain turned down Chelsea - and higher wages at Arsenal - to go to Anfield. Liverpool, who love the player’s versatility, are delighted. Klopp sees massive room for improvement.

Liverpool will seek to finish the transfer window with a bang today. There is a real buzz on Merseyside.